Thursday, April 30, 2015

The Wenatchee Wild are set to become the BCHL's 17th franchise. One BCHL GM and Head Coach told me today that Wenatchee will "definitely be playing in our league next season." This comes on the heels of a Twitter conversation I had with Bliss Littler, who is the current GM and Head Coach of Wenatchee in the North American Hockey League, in which he seemed confident that his club would be in the BCHL in 2015-16. Littler's exact words were, "I'm betting on it happening".

As was mentioned in this space earlier this month, the Wild requested to become dormant in the NAHL for next season in order to seek permission from USA Hockey and Hockey Canada to join the BCHL. Approval from USA Hockey and Hockey Canada doesn't guarantee Wenatchee can move to the BCHL, as the league's governors would also need to approve any such move. No confirmation where we are in those processes, but based on conversations today, it looks like the BCHL will have its first US-based team since Bellingham last played in the league in 1994-95. There's more to this story for sure.

This was posted on Brian Wiebe's BCHL Blog:

Wenatchee to Join Mainland Division

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

With word that the Wenatchee Wild are to join the BCHL next season, there is a lot of speculation as to which division the team will fit into. One BCHL GM told me that it's likely the Wild will be in the Mainland Division along with Chilliwack, Coquitlam, Langley, Prince George and Surrey. The Bellingham Ice Hawks are the last US-based team in the BCHL and they played in the Mainland Division before leaving the league in 1995. There is a three hour traveling time difference between Wenatchee and Bellingham, so it's not really an equal comparison in terms of distance. Geographically, Wenatchee is directly south of Princeton, BC, so it's actually further east than Merritt, but with Prince George also in the Mainland Division, geography doesn't really have much to do with it. The discussion about the BCHL's division names is a discussion for another time.

Here are the distances and driving times from the Mainland Division home rinks to Wenatchee, according to Google Maps:

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Former Vernon Vipers forward Brent Kisio breaks down Game 4 vs the Brandon Wheat Kings. Brandon leads the best of seven Eastern Conference Championship series 2-1 with Game 4 going tonight in Calgary. Kisio Assistant an Associate Coach & Assistant General Manager is in his eigth season with the Western Hockey League (WHL) Calgary Hitmen. Kisio played one season in Vernon (2002-2003) in 59 regular season games with the Vipers Kisio collected (20-goals-46-assists-66-points).

No matter how many times the Calgary Hitmen head to overtime in the 2015 WHL Playoffs, it never gets any easier on associate coach Brent Kisio’s ticker.

After Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Championship series headed to extra-minutes for a second-straight time on Tuesday at the Scotiabank Saddledome, the Hitmen broke a franchise record for most overtime periods in the playoffs with eight.

Scoring his third overtime goal of the post-season, Adam Tambellini claimed the crucial tilt for the Hitmen to narrow the Brandon Wheat Kings series lead down to 2-1.

“Does it get easier for a coach? The answer is definitely no,” Kisio laughed of the Hitmen developing penchant for overtime. “It’s something that from a comfort level, we’ve been there lots. The biggest thing for us is our leadership in the room. There’s not a lot of panic, we just go out and play our game.”

With Tuesday’s victory, the Hitrmen improved their overtime record during the playoffs to 5-3 as they look ahead to Game 4 on Wednesday at the Saddledome.

Here’s how Kisio broke down some of the Hitmen keys to victory:

THE YOUNG GUNS

According to Kisio, losing key components of the lineup is par for the course for any team thrust in a deep playoff run.

With key pieces in Chase Lang, Jake Virtanen and Connor Rankin missing from the Hitmen lineup, the team’s core of freshmen have stepped up to the plate.

Being hit by the injury and suspension bug in the playoffs is something the Hitmen are prepared for, Kisio explained.

“We were banged up at different parts of the season,” he said. “We had some guys step up and play different roles. We are missing a couple guys now, but it’s almost no different than the regular season.”

The Hitmen young guns have rose to the occasion in a big way in the wake of Lang, Virtanen and Rankin’s absences from the lineup.

On Tuesday, A newly formed line combination of forwards Beck Malenstyn, Pavel Karnaukov and Carsen Twarysnki served as a shining example of the Hitmen crop of rookies’ ability to grab increased minutes by the horns.

“It’s something that in the playoffs you are going to see,” Kisio added. “The games are battles, they are going to be physical and there’s going to be nicks and bruises and guys are going to miss some games.”

BETWEEN THE PIPES

Kisio considers the Hitmen situation in net to be a favourable one.

Hitmen 19-year-old goaltenders Brendan Burke and Mack Shields have been duking it out throughout the playoffs for time in net with both netminders delivering game-stealing performances in close series’ against the Kootenay Ice, Medicine Hat Tigers and Wheat Kings.

Kisio said that’s what the Hitmen set out to do when they acquired Burke at the 2015 WHL Trade deadline in exchange for rookie goalie Evan Johnson and a fourth round draft pick in 2016.

“They have both been fantastic,” Kisio said of his goaltending duo. “It’s what we wanted to create at the deadline. We wanted to create something where we could have two guys competing for playing minutes, no different than a forward or defenceman.”

Against the Ice, Burke saw the bulk of the action through the first six games before Shields stepped in to take Game 7 of the series, when he faced just 13 shots after making a relief appearance in Cranbrook midway through Game 6.

Shields took the reigns between the pipes against the Tigers and was instrumental in his team’s 4-1 series triumph, stopping 196 of 208 shots thrown his way in the best-of-seven.

Round 3 has belonged to Burke so far.

The Arizona Coyotes prospect has so far matched Shields’ stellar play in Round 2 with an outstanding 43-save performance in Game 2 on Saturday in Brandon before claiming Game 3 with 33 stops.

With a pair of capable and experienced backstops, the Hitmen know they’ll have a bona fide starter with loads of WHL experience in net on any given night.

“It’s something where if you asked our players in the room and a from coach’s standpoint, we are comfortable with whoever’s in net,” Kisio said.

URGENT BEHAVIOR

The idea of going down 3-0 against the regular season champion Wheat Kings was a reality the Hitmen weren’t ready to accept.

They came out with all guns blazing on Tuesday and Kisio expects the Wheaties to come back at the Hitmen with the same level of intensity on Wednesday.

“We just have to stick to our game plan,” he said. “We have to play hard and have a sense of urgency. I think you’ve seen that when our team has a snese of urgency like we did in Game 7 vs. Kootenay and last night, we have a different level to our game.”

“We know Brandon is going to come out and be playing a little harder and tighten things up,” he added. “We know that and expect it. It’s going to be close and the little things will be the difference.”

Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini scored his third overtime goal of the WHL Playoffs Tuesday giving the Calgary Hitmen a 2-1 win over the Brandon Wheat Kings. Brandon leads the best of seven Eastern Conference Championship series 2-1 with Game 4 going tonight in Calgary. In 11 playoff games Tambellini has (9-goals-12-assists-21-points).

Tambellini attended the New York Rangers Prospect Development Camp in July was one of twenty players reassigned from the Rangers Training Camp in September. The Rangers reassigned Tambellini to the Hitmen on September 24th 2014.

Tambellini left the University of North Dakota last season for the Western Hockey League joining the Calgary Hitmen in early January after being acquired in a trade with the Portland Winterhawks. Tambellini played a season and a half in Vernon (2011-13) before being traded to Surrey on January 10th 2013 along with future considerations (Michael Roberts) for Mason Blacklock & future considerations (Jordan Klimek and Demico Hannoun). In 91 regular season games with the Vipers Tambellini collected (49-goals-46-assists-95-points). Tambellini was drafted 64th overall in the 3rd Round by the New York Rangers at the 2013 NHL Draft.

AT IT AGAIN: Tambellini strikes in OT to claim Game 3 for Hitmen
Apr 28, 2015

By Andrew Schopp - Hitmenhockey.com (@Azschopp)

As bench boss of the American Hockey League’s Hershey Bears in 2010, Mark French had Alex Giroux pegged as his clutch man.

Thrust in a deep playoff run in his first year coaching a WHL team, French now has Calgary Hitmen forward Adam Tambellini.

For the third time of the 2015 WHL Playoffs, Tambellini scored in overtime to lift the Hitmen to a critical 2-1 victory over the Brandon Wheat Kings in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Championship series on Monday at the Scotiabank Saddledome.

With the win, the Hitmen cut into the Wheat Kings series lead and made it a 2-1 best-of-seven ahead of Game 4 on Wednesday in Calgary.

“I had Alex when we won the Calder Cup in Hershey,” French said when asked if he’s ever coached a player with a similar knack for overtime tallies. “It’s funny how in these (playoff) runs certain guys step up.”

With key pieces in Chase Lang, Jake Virtanen and Connor Rankin missing from the Hitmen lineup, the team’s core of freshmen stepped up to the plate.

A newly formed line combination of forwards Beck Malenstyn, Pavel Karnaukov and Carsen Twarysnki shined in a scoreless first period, helping the Hitmen to keep pace with the Wheat Kings as they were outshot by a narrow 12-10 margin.

Scoring both Hitmen goals on Tuesday, Tambellini was impressed with his younger teammates' ability to fill the void left by injuries and suspensions, which have struck as a major blow to the team’s roster.

“Our guys are doing a good job of stepping into roles with Rankin, Virtanen and Lang out,” Tambellini said. “Those are three guys that log a lot of minutes. Our young guys have stepped up and done really well.”

The Wheat Kings struck first just under five minutes into the second period when forward John Quenneville snapped a wrister past Hitmen starting goalie Brendan Burke to crack things open.

Calgary’s struggle to get on the board in the early going was not due to a lack of effort.

The Hitmen young guns continued to make an impact as they helped generate a series of strong chances, including a breakaway by Twarynski, which was stopped by Wheat Kings netminder Jordan Papirny to keep it 1-0 after 40.

“It’ll be an experience I am sure they are going to build off of,” French said of the Hitmen rookies’ increased role. “They are giving us some good minutes. Twarynski is playing hard; he’s finishing his checks, he can skate well. Beck is much the same way and Karnaukhov is doing a good job.”

Working off an outstanding 43-save performance in Game 2 at Westman Place, Burke was once again in solid form in the third frame.

While the puck travelled freely between the Hitmen and Wheat Kings zones, both sides got their share of licks in as Burke stood his ground to keep it a one-goal game.

Burke, who turned away 33 shots in the Game 3 victory, said going down 3-0 in the series was not something the Hitmen were ready to accept as a reality.

“Let’s face it, if you go down 3-0 to a team like that, it’s a long shot to come back,” Burke said. “We knew what was on the line and we knew how to execute.”

Just a few minutes later, the Hitmen finally knotted things up as while working on their second power play of the night, Tambellini wired a howitzer past Papirny with a one-time feed from Travis Sanheim.

Tambellini’s 11th of the playoffs would stand the test of time as with the Wheat Kings outshooting the Hitmen 34-30, the third period expired to ship the game to overtime for the second time of the series.

Just over three minutes into the Hitmen seventh overtime frame of the playoffs, a puck in the Wheat Kings zone found itself loose in the slot, where Tambellini swiftly jumped on it to hammer it home and clinch victory.

“Sometimes in overtime you can be a little too passive,” Tambellini said of the Hitmen shot-heavy mentality in sudden death. “We wanted to focus on being aggressive and take a chance. We were fortunate to get a bounce that popped into the slot.”

The Hitmen immediately look ahead to Game 4 at the Scotiabank Saddledome.

Puck drop is at 7 p.m. MT.

QUICK HITS: Not dressed for the Hitmen on Tuesday were Chase Lang, Jake Virtanen, Connor Rankin, Aaron Hyman (AP) and Kyle Dumba (AP) … Hitmen prospect Bryce Platt won a bronze medal at the 2015 TELUS Cup with the Saskatchewan Midget-AAA Hockey League Regina Pat-Canadians. Platt, a Hitmen protected list addition, tallied a goal and an assist in the tournament … Hitmen forward Pavel Karnaukhov entered Tuesday’s game sitting third in playoff rookie scoring with goals and five assists. Jordy Stallard is right behind him with three goals and four assists … Freshmen Hitmen have combined for 34 points in the playoffs so far.

The American Hockey League (AHL) Worcester Sharks have reassigned former Vernon Vipers defenceman Kyle Bigos the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Ontario Reign.

Bigos attended the San Jose Sharks Training camp in October before being released-assigned to the American Hockey League. Bigos started the season in Worcester after signing with the Worcester Sharks on September, 8th 2014 before being assigned to Ontario on October 12th 2014. The Reign assigned Bigos to Worcester on January 29th 2015. In three games this season with the Sharks Bigos had just one assist. In 43 games this season with the Reign Bigos has (1-goal-12-assists-13-points).

Bigos spent last season with three different teams (San Francisco, Ontario & Worcester). Bigos signed his first semi-pro contract with the Worcester Sharks on July, 16th 2013. Bigos attended the San Jose Sharks Training Camp last year before being released back to Worcester where he was then assigned to the East Coast Hockey League San Francisco Bulls on October, 1st 2013. In 40 games with the Bulls Bigos collected (2-goals-4-assists-6-points) before the team ceased operations in late January. Bigos become an unrestricted free agent signed with East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Ontario Reign playing in 19 games collected (1-goal-4-assists-5-points). Bigos was called up to the AHL played in five games with the Worcester Sharks registered one assist before being sent back down to the ECHL.

Bigos played two seasons in Vernon (2007-2009) collecting (10-goals-40-assists-50-points) in 166 regular season games with the Vipers. Bigos an assistant captain in his second and final season with the Vipers was drafted 99th overall by the NHL Edmonton Oilers in the 4th round of the 2009 NHL Draft. Bigos attended the Oilers Developement Camp two out of the last three years. The Edmonton Oilers traded Bigos to San Jose for Lee Moffie on July 7th 2013.

ONTARIO, Calif. – The Ontario Reign, four-time ECHL Pacific Division Champions and proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s 2014 Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings and Winnipeg Jets, have announced that defenseman Kyle Bigos has been reassigned to the club from the Worcester Sharks of the American Hockey League.

Bigos, 25, appeared in three games with the Sharks during his call-up, posting one assist. In 30 games with the Reign this season, the Upland, Calif. native has posted 10 points (1g-9a) and 67 penalty minutes.

Reign Drops:

The Reign are back in action at home on Friday, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. when they take on the Colorado Eagles. The first 5,000 fans that enter Citizens Business Arena will receive a free auto sun shade giveaway, compliments of Smart Solar Power. This game is also a New York Grill Fan Friday. The New York Grill, located at 950 Ontario Mills Drive, invites all Reign fans to come before and/or after all Friday night games. They will stay open late on Friday game nights and provide special "Reign" promotions.

The Reign host the Eagles again on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 3 p.m. for Law Enforcement Night. All Law Enforcement in Southern California are invited to come out to watch the Reign take on the Colorado Eagles at the Citizens Business Bank Arena.

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Here is an article that was in the Province newspaper last week, featuring former Vernon Vipers forward Demico Hannoun.

Hannoun played one season in Vernon (2013-14) before being traded to Surrey along with Ben Butcher on June 9th 2014 as the Future Considerations in the Brett Mulcahy trade from January 2014. The Vipers sent forward Chase McMurphy & Future Considerations to Surrey for Brett Mulcahy & Future Considerations on January 6th 2014.

Hannoun played two seasons in Surrey before joining the Vipers. Hannoun was part of the future considerations in the Vipers-Eagles trade at the 2012 BCHL trade deadline that saw Vernon send Adam Tambellini & Michael Roberts to Surrey for future considerations wich at the end of that season were named (Mason Blacklock and Demico Hannoun). In 47 games with the Vipers last season Hannoun collected (15-goals-29-assists-44-points). Hannoun was committed to Michigan Tech for this season was traded from the Eagles to Penticton on August 13th 2014.

Thanks to Fraser Rogers for posting this article on his Penticton Vees Blog.

This was in the Vancouver Province Newspaper:

Hannoun in the BCHL final is an annual event

Right-winger from North Delta has been in the last three finals, with different teams

By Steve Ewen, The Province April 23, 2015

You have to like the Penticton Vees’ chances of winning the BCHL title next season. It sounds like they’re getting Demico Hannoun back.

Hannoun, 19, has played in the past three BCHL finals, albeit with three different clubs. He helped the Vees capture the banner earlier this month and this weekend Penticton is at the Western Canada Cup tournament in Fort McMurray, Alta.

The top two clubs from the five-team event advance to the RBC national championships, which run May 9-17 in Portage la Prairie, Man.

Hannoun, a right-winger from North Delta, was originally slated to suit up for Michigan Tech in 2015-16, but he said earlier this week that they’ve asked him to spend one more season in Junior A. NCAA teams occasionally mix and match start dates for incoming freshmen according to roster needs.

There’s an argument to be made that he has some sort of control of the BCHL post-season.

Penticton beat the Nanaimo Clippers in six games in this most recent league finale. Hannoun has been Penticton’s leading scorer throughout this post-season so far, producing 21 points, including eight goals, in 22 games.

On their way to the final, Penticton needed seven games to beat the Vernon Vipers. Hannoun played 2013-14 for the Vipers, and helped them make league final, where they lost in four straight to the Coquitlam Express. Vernon was hosting the RBC, so they advanced automatically.

They ended up losing in the national tournament semifinals.

Vernon had picked up Hannoun in the off-season, as future considerations in a deal the season before with the Surrey Eagles for sniper Adam Tambellini. In that 2012-13 post-season, Surrey beat Penticton in six games in the BCHL championship. They, too, lost in the RBC semifinals.

Vernon sent Hannoun back to Surrey this past off-season as part of another future-considerations deal, this time for Brett Mulcahy.

Hannoun admits that this time he “asked for the trade a little bit,” out of Surrey.

Vees general manager and coach Fred Harbinson landed Hannoun from the Eagles for the rights to defenceman Alex Coulombe and future considerations. Coulombe, 20, played this season in the QMJHL with the Shawinigan Cataractes.

“I didn’t know where I was going to go,” admits Hannoun, “but, yeah, I was pleased when it was Penticton.

“Penticton has been at the top of the league ever since I’ve been in the league. It’s a little different being on this side of it now.”

He’s quick to credit Harbinson, who’s in his eighth season with Penticton after a five-year run as an assistant at St. Cloud State of the NCAA.

As for the playoffs, Hannoun admits that he feels “more comfortable,” every season. He’s had quite a run. He’s played 66 BCHL playoff games over his four years in the league, along with 10 RBC games and five Western Canada Cup games so far.

Monday, April 27, 2015

The Wenatchee Wild of the North American Hockey League is once again looking to join the BCHL. The Wild, who have knocked on the door to join the league for at least the last three seasons, requested to become dormant in the NAHL for next season in order to seek permission from USA Hockey and Hockey Canada to join the BCHL for 2015-16. Approval from USA Hockey and Hockey Canada doesn't guarantee Wenatchee can move to the BCHL, as the league's governors would also need to approve any such move.

NAHL- The North American Hockey League's Board of Governors had a conference call yesterday to discuss a number of key issues. On top of the agenda was the Wenatchee Wild's request to be allowed to possibly go into dormancy for next season, which was approved, in order to seek permission from USA Hockey and Hockey Canada to join the British Columbia Hockey League for the 2015-2016 season. If the Wild are unable to get that permission, Wenatchee will remain in the NAHL for next season.

Sunday, April 26, 2015

The American Hockey League (AHL) Hershey Bears have recalled former Vernon Vipers forward Braden Pimm before reassigning Pimm to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Evansville IceMen.

Pimm attended the Washington Capitals Training camp in October before signing with the Capitals farm club AHL Hershey Bears on August 15th 2014. Pimm never played a single game with Hershey before joining the East Coast Hockey League South Carolina Stingrays in mid October. In 45 games this season with South Carolina Pimm collected (18-goals-17-assists-35-points). In 7 games with the IceMen Pimm has (2-goals-3-assists-5-points).

Pimm finished his fourth and final season at Northeastern University last season before signing a amateur-tryout contract (ATO) with the American Hockey League (AHL) Milwaukee Admirals on March 27th 2014. Pimm was not rewarded with a new contract after going pointless in 9 games with Milwaukee. In 37 games last season with the Huskies Pimm recorded (20-goals-17-assists-37-points). Pimm played three years in Vernon (2007-2010) In 179 regular season games with the Vipers Pimm collected (64-goals-97-assists-161-points).

North Charleston, S.C. – South Carolina Stingrays, celebrating 22 seasons of hockey in the Lowcountry, announced today that forward Brandon Wong has been assigned to the team by the Binghamton Senators of the American Hockey Leauge (AHL) from the Evansville IceMen of the ECHL. Forward Braden Pimm has been recalled to the Hershey Bears (AHL) and reassigned to Evansville.

Wong, 28, led the IceMen in points (39), goals (16) and assists (23) in 50 games this season. Last season, the Victoria, British Columbia, native skated in Denmark and Sweden totaling 36 points (21 goals, 15 assists) in 36 games. Before departing for Europe, Wong spent the previous three seasons with the Stingrays’ in-state rivals, the Greenville Road Warriors, acquiring 161 points (76 goals, 85 assists) in 185 contests.

Pimm, 25, had 35 points (18 goals, 17 assists) in 45 games with the Stingrays this season.

“Braden Pimm violated the team’s personal conduct policy and as a result, we decided to part ways,” said Stingrays President Rob Concannon. “We wish Braden the best of luck and appreciate his time with our organization.”

The Stingrays travel to The Sunshine State for a three-game road trip starting Thursday, February 26 against the Orlando Solar Bears at 7:00 p.m. at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. The road trip continues on Friday and Saturday, February 27-28 against the Florida Everblades at Germain Arena in Estero, Florida.

Saturday, April 25, 2015

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Orlando Solar Bears
have traded former Vernon Vipers forward-captain Mike Ullrich to the Stockton Thunder.

Ullrich was in his second season in Orlando after playing with three teams during the 2012-13 season. (South Carolina, Tulsa & Trenton). Ullrich a free-agent signed with Orlando on July 1st 2013 before re-signing with the Solar Bears on June 17th 2014. Ullrich collected (10-goals-25-assists-35-points) in 42 games last season with the Solar Bears while picking up (9-goals-23-assists-32-points) in 37 games this season with Orlando. Ullrich also spent time in the American Hockey League last season playing with Manchester & Iowa as well as a try-out with St. Johns. Since the trade Ullrich has yet to play a game with the Thunder.

Since 2007-08 Ullrich has played in three leagues with seven different teams. Pensacola, Tulsa, Orlando, South Carolina, Trenton, Manchester & Iowa. In 228 semi-pro games Ullrich has collected (73-goals-85-assists-193-points).

Ullrich played parts of two years in Vernon (2005-2007). Ullrich left the Vipers during the 2005-06 season before returning to Vernon the following season after a short stint with the WHL Lethbridge Hurricanes. In 103 games with the Vipers Ullrich collected (39-goals-92-assists-131-points).

Jack MacLellan and Peter Sivak head to the Bridgeport Sound Tigers while the Thunder also acquire Mike Ullrich for future considerations from the Orlando Solar Bears

Stockton, Calif. – The Stockton Thunder, owned by the Calgary Flames and proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s New York Islanders and AHL’s Bridgeport Sound Tigers, announces forward Jack MacLellan receives his first call to the AHL this season with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers. Joining him in Bridgeport is teammate Peter Sivak, who receives another call-up to the Sound Tigers. The Thunder also acquire the Orlando Solar Bears second leading scorer Mike Ullrich for future considerations.

MacLellan, 26, is in his first season as a member of the Stockton Thunder and currently leads the team with 35 points, 10 of which came as goals. The former Brown University captain has played in 36 contests this season, missing 7 games with an injury. He heads to Bridgeport on a pro tryout contract.

For MacLellan, this is his first AHL call since signing with the Nashville Predators organization in 2012. The centerman played for Nashville’s AHL affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals, in 2012-13, spending 35 games with the Admirals.
Ullrich, 28, is in his fifth professional season having spent time the past two years with the Orlando Solar Bears. Last season, the Banff, Alberta native played in 42 games scoring 10 goals and adding 25 assists while also spending 12 combined games with the Manchester Monarchs and Iowa Wild of the AHL.

This season, Ulrich has nearly matched this mark having played 37 games with Orlando, having scored 9 goals and 23 assists for a team second best 32 points.

After finishing his junior career in the BCHL, Ulrich played 11 games with the ECHL’s Pensacola Ice Pilots before heading to college in Canada. Ullrich played three seasons at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology before turning back to the pro game with the Tulsa Oilers of the Central Hockey League. Before he landed in Orlando, Ullrich also had brief stints with the South Carolina Stingrays, Trenton Titans and another short stay with the Oilers in the CHL.

Sivak, 32, is in his third season in North America and first with the Stockton Thunder. In 29 games played, Sivak has scored 10 goals and added 16 assists. He receives another call to the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, whom he’s played a total of 5 games for, scoring 1 goal.

The Thunder take on the Alaska Aces this Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Anchorage. Thunder fans can watch the games on ECHL.TV or listen to the games live on Spreaker and iHeartRadio. Fans can also watch the game for free at the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, the Thunder’s official home away from home.

Friday, April 24, 2015

The Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL), in conjunction with the Cobourg Cougars Junior 'A' Hockey Club and the Whitby Fury Junior 'A' Hockey Club, announced today that Hockey Canada in partnership with the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) has awarded the 2015 World Junior 'A' Challenge (WJAC) to the OJHL with the Cobourg Cougars and Whitby Fury to serve as the Official Host Sites from December 13–19, 2015.

The 2015 event will mark the first time that the WJAC has been held in Ontario since the tournament’s inception in 2006.

The 2015 World Junior 'A' Challenge will follow the same format as previous years – two Canadian entries will be joined by four international teams, with two groups of three teams. The group winners will receive an automatic bye to the semifinals, while the second-place and third-place teams will crossover for the quarter-finals. The 2015 WJAC will be based out of two Official Host Sites in the town of Cobourg, playing out of the Cobourg Community Centre and the town of Whitby playing out of Iroquois Park Sports Centre. The full tournament schedule, ticket and sponsorship information will be announced in the coming weeks.

The OJHL also announced that former Oshawa MPP, Jerry Ouellette has been named Chairman of the 2015 WJAC Host Committee. “I very much appreciate this opportunity in promoting the great game of Junior 'A' hockey that can be found here in Ontario and showing the wonders that can be found here in Whitby and Cobourg,” stated Jerry Ouellette, 2015 WJAC Host Committee Chair.

“The CJHL continues to build its brand across Canada through elite events showcasing our players such as the WJAC,” stated Kirk Lamb, CJHL President and Chairman. “This is the first time that the WJAC will be hosted in Ontario and by the OJHL and we are very excited to award this world class international junior hockey event to the great communities of Cobourg and Whitby.”

“The OJHL is extremely excited about being awarded the 2015 WJAC,” said OJHL Commissioner, Marty Savoy. “The OJHL strives to bring high profile Junior 'A' hockey events to our fans such as the recent CJHL Prospects game held in Oakville this week. As we continue to promote the brand of the CJHL and OJHL within Ontario we are confident that the host sites of Cobourg and Whitby will do an outstanding job in the organization and execution of the 2015 WJAC.”

“The entire Cobourg Cougars Junior 'A' Hockey Club and the Town of Cobourg are very honoured to have been selected as an Official Host Site for the 2015 WJAC,” said Cobourg Host Site Chair, Ashley Haynes. “I am very excited to work with the amazing team of people that we have assembled to act as the Cobourg Organizing Committee. We look forward to working with the Whitby Fury as the other Official Host Site and our governing partners to bring international junior hockey to all supporters of the OJHL.”

In an unprecedented decision, the OJHL Board of Governors have approved a black-out of all OJHL regular season games from December 15–19, 2015 to allow for all OJHL fans, volunteers, staff and supporters to take part in the event.

“We are thrilled to be one of the two Official Host Sites for the 2015 WJAC,” stated Mark Vinintz, Chair of the Whitby Host Site. “Partnering with such a strong OJHL franchise such as the Cobourg Cougars and our governing partners, we are excited to bring this world class international junior hockey event to Ontario and the fans of the OJHL.”

Six of the seven gold medal games at the World Junior A Challenge have featured at least one Canadian team. Canada West won gold at the first two tournaments, in 2006 and 2007, before taking the top prize in 2011; it also earned silver in 2008, 2009 and 2012, and won bronze in 2013. Canada East was silver medalist in 2006, 2007, 2010 and 2011, and claimed bronze in 2008.

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Penticton Vees forward Dakota Conroy has been named the BCHL Player of the Week for the week ending April 19, the league announced Monday.

Conroy led all scorers for the week and capped off the BCHL season by scoring the Fred Page Cup-winning goal in overtime as the Vees defeated the Nanaimo Clippers in Game 6.

The native of Edmonton wound up with a goal and five assists in four games, all Vees victories. Conroy had a helper in the Vees first win of the Finals and then set up three goals as they evened the series in Game 4. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound forward set up one of two third-period goals for the Vees in Game 6 and 2:06 into OT, he got the series-clinching goal.

Conroy wound up with six goals and 13 assists in the postseason, tying him for third in the BCHL.

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Ontario Reign have suspended former Vernon Vipers forward Tyler Scofield after leaving the team to play overseas.

Scofield has spent his entire professional career in Europe playing with three different teams from 2009-2014 before signing with the Reign on December 4, 2014. In 18 games with the Reign Scofield collected (5-goals-9-assists-14-points).

Scofield started this season with the Moser Medical Graz 99ers, an Austrian ice hockey team from Graz, Styria that play in the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga hockey league. Scofield collected (5-goals-0-assists-5-points) in eight games with Graz 99ers before leaving the team on November 4th 2014.

Scofield spent the past four seasons in Austria with Klagenfurter Athletiksport. Klagenfurt AC is a professional ice hockey team from Klagenfurt, Carinthia, Austria that plays in the Austrian Erste Bank Hockey League. In 49 games last season Scofield collected (18-goals-10-assists-28-points).

Scofield played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2000-2002) before being traded to Prince George during the 2001-2002 season. The Vipers sent Scofield and Mark Nelson to the Spruce Kings in return for Rod Pelly, Dan Rossi & Josh Ciocco. In 79 games with the Vipers Scofield collected (21-goals-19-assists-40-points).

Ontario sends rookie forward to Tulsa for futures, while Scofield departs for Europe

ONTARIO, Calif. – The Ontario Reign, four-time ECHL Pacific Division Champions and proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL's 2014 Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings and Winnipeg Jets, have announced that the club has traded rookie forward Brady Ramsay to the Tulsa Oilers for future considerations, while forward Tyler Scofield has left the club to play overseas and has been suspended by Ontario in order to retain his ECHL rights.

Ramsay, 21, had played in 13 games with the Reign this season, collecting five points (2g-3a) and 31 penalty minutes.

Scofield, 30, had dressed in 18 games with the Reign this season, posting 14 points (5g-9a) and four penalty minutes.

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Before he became the Hamburglar & suiting up for the Ottawa Senators, Andrew Hammond helped the BCHL Vernon Vipers win the 2009 National Junior ‘A’ Championship. Here are some never before seen highlights from the guy we called Hammy.

These are highlights from the 2008-2009 season and most have never been seen before as the footage was discovered only recently. While he had a very calm relaxed personality, he was also very agile and athletic as you will see in these highlights.

He is the second player to be inducted into the unofficial Vernon Vipers Highlight Hall Of Fame. The first was longtime captain and former teammate of Andrew Hammond, #18 Chris Crowell.

Monday, April 20, 2015

Former Vernon Vipers forward Sahir Gill has been named the ECHL Player of the Week.

Gill is in his second season with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Wheeling Nailers after stints with the American Hockey League Hamilton Bulldogs & Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.

Gill attended the Montreal Canadians Training camp this season was released before signing with the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs on October 10th 2014. Gill was released after going pointless in one game with Hamilton returned to the Nailers where he played last season before signing a professional tryout agreement (PTO) with the American Hockey League (AHL) Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Gill played in 12 games with the Penguins collecting (1-goal-2-assists-3-points) before being released January 16, 2015. Gill signed a professional tryout agreement (PTO) on January 17th 2015 with the Hamilton Bulldogs played in 24 games collecting (2-goals-2-assists-4-points) was released on March 25th 2015 before returning to Wheeling.

Gill played last year with the ECHL Wheeling Nailers. Gill finished sixth in rookie scoring and lead the team in scoring collecting (13-goals-41-assists-54-points). Gill was suppose to enter his fourth and final season at Boston University last season but left school signing with the Nailers early in the season. Gill played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2008-2010). Gill left the Vipers in July of 2009 for the United States Hockey League (USHL) Chicago Steel but after just 26 games would return to Vernon in mid January of 2010. In 71 regular season games with the Vipers Gill recorded (21-goals-30-assists-42-points).

Wheeling Nailers’ forward Sahir Gill is the Sher-Wood Hockey ECHL Player of the Week for March 23-29.

Gill scored five goals, including two game-winners, and added four assists for nine points as the Nailers went 3-1-0 last week.

The 22-year-old had a goal and an assist in a 3-2 loss to Toledo on Wednesday and in a 2-1 win against Fort Wayne on Friday, tallied an assist in a 5-2 victory against Reading on Saturday and recorded a hat trick and added an assist in a 4-3 win over Cincinnati on Sunday.

A native of Terrace, British Columbia, Gill has 23 points (9g-14) in 19 games with the Nailers this season while adding seven points (3g-4a) in 37 games with Hamilton and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the American Hockey League.

Gill has tallied 77 points (22g-55a) in 86 career ECHL games with Wheeling.

Prior to turning pro, he had 78 points (28g-50a) in 117 career games at Boston University.

On behalf of Sahir Gill, a case of pucks will be donated to a Wheeling youth hockey organization by Sher-Wood Hockey, the exclusive puck supplier of the ECHL. Since beginning its sponsorship of the award in 2000-01, Sher-Wood Hockey has donated more than 31,000 pucks to youth hockey organizations in ECHL cities.

Sunday, April 19, 2015

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Elmira Jackals have traded former Vernon Vipers defenceman Rob Florentino to the Florida Everblades.

The Jackals signed Florentino to a try-out contract on October 15th 2014. In 18 games this season with Elmira Florentino recorded two goals. In 34 games this season with Florida Florentino has (4-goals-4-assists-8-points).

Florentino started last season (2013-14) with the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) Huntsville Havoc. In 14 games with Huntsville Florentino collected (5-goals-9-assists-14-points). Florentino was loaned to the ECHL Reading Royals before signing with Reading on December 6th 2013. Florentino played in just 9 games with the Royals picking up two assists, was released on March 19th 2014.

Florentino attended the 2009 Vernon Vipers Training Camp playing in a few exhibition games before being released. The Vipers with the league limit six twenty year olds at that time were forced to release Florentino who was twenty years old. Florentino later signed with the Victoria Grizzlies where he started the 2009-2010 regular season.

DULUTH, GA - January 3, 2015 - The Elmira Jackals, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Buffalo Sabres and AHL's Rochester Americans, announced today that they have traded defenseman Rob Florentino to the Florida Everblades to complete the future considerations from the October 15th trade, which sent Kevin Hart from Florida to Elmira.

Florentino, 25, skated in 18 games with the Jackals this season as a forward and defenseman, notching two goals and 35 penalty minutes. In 38 career ECHL games with Elmira, Reading and Las Vegas, Florentino has recorded four points and 54 penalty minutes.

Don't miss a minute of the action with Jackals season tickets! Call (607) 734-7825 or visit jackalshockey.com to order your season tickets today. Can't make it to every game? No problem! The Jackals are offering 10 and 20-game select and flex ticket plans!

Follow the Jackals at www.jackalshockey.com,on Facebook, Twitter (@JackalsHockey) and Instagram for all the latest news and updates.

Saturday, April 18, 2015

The Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Adler Mannheim Eagles have given former Vernon Lakers forward Glen Metropolit a new contract extension. Metropolit in his first season with Adler Mannheim signed with the Eagles on July 29th 2014. The Adler Mannheim Eagles are an ice hockey team that play in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga, the highest ice hockey league in Germany. The Eagles are based in Mannheim, a city in the north of Baden-Württemberg.

Metropolit played last season with two teams. HC Lugano & Schlittschuh Club Bern. Hockey Club Lugano is a professional hockey club based in Lugano, Switzerland while Schlittschuh Club Bern is also a hockey team based in Bern, Switzerland. Metropolit played two seasons with HC Lugano before joining Schlittschuh Club Bern. In 40 games last season with HC Lugano Metropolit collected (6-goals-28-assists-34-points). In three games with Schlittschuh Club Bern Metropolit picked up one goal. Metropolit was also Captain for Team Canada at last years Spengler Cup where he picked up (1-goal-2-assists-3-points) in four games with Canada.

Metropolit played one season in Vernon (1994-95) with the Vernon Lakers. In 60 regular season games with the Lakers Metropolit lead the team in scoring with (43-goals-74-assists-117-points). Mettropolit was never drafted but played eight seasons in the NHL with seven different teams (Washington, Tampa Bay, Atlanta, St. Louis, Boston, Philadelphia & Montreal).

The eagles speed up the cadre plannings for the coming season 2015/2016 and have extended the contracts running out at the seasonal end with eight players shortly before the turn of the year prematurely.

Ronny Arendt, to yokes pike and Glen Metropolit remain loyal to the eagles for an other playing time in each case. Jamie Tardif and Christoph Ullmann are available till 2017, Martin Buchwieser and Dennis Endras till 2018. Matthias Plachta has signed a long-term contract which binds him up to the 30th April, 2020 to the eagles.

Friday, April 17, 2015

Former Vernon Vipers prospect forward Dakota Conroy scored at 2:06 of
overtime in Game 6 giving the visiting Penticton Vees a 3-2 overtime win over the Nanaimo Clippers capture the 2015 Fred Page Cup now advance to the 2015 Western Canada Cup in Fort McMurray.

On October 28th 2014 the Vernon Vipers traded the CJHL playing rights of Conroy along with future considerations to the Penticton Vees for forward Liam Finlay. Conroy a member with the Prince Albert Raiders at the time of the trade left the Raiders on October 19th 2014 returned home to Edmonton, Alberta awaiting a trade. Conroy was suspended by the Raiders for leaving the team was eventually released before joining the Vees in mid November.

Former Vernon Vipers forward Demico Hannoun is also on the Penticton Vees BCHL Championship team. Hannoun played one season in Vernon (2013-14) before being traded to Surrey along with Ben Butcher on June 9th 2014 as the Future Considerations in the Brett Mulcahy trade from January 2014. The Vipers sent forward Chase McMurphy & Future Considerations to Surrey for Brett Mulcahy & Future Considerations on January 6th 2014.

Hannoun played two seasons in Surrey before joining the Vipers. Hannoun was part of the future considerations in the Vipers-Eagles trade at the 2012 BCHL trade deadline that saw Vernon send Adam Tambellini & Michael Roberts to Surrey for future considerations wich at the end of that season were named (Mason Blacklock and Demico Hannoun). In 47 games with the Vipers last season Hannoun collected (15-goals-29-assists-44-points). Hannoun was committed to Michigan Tech for this season was traded from the Eagles to Penticton on August 13th 2014.

The Penticton Vees went out and acquired Dakota Conroy in mid-season for moments just like this.

A prolific scorer in the Western Hockey League, Conroy scored the winning goal at 2:06 of overtime as the Penticton Vees beat the Nanaimo Clippers 3-2 Friday at the Frank Crane Arena to hoist their second Fred Page Cup BCHL championship in the last four years.

Penticton won the best-of-seven series 4-2 and advance to the Crescent Point Western Canada Cup April 25 to May 3 in Fort McMurray, Alta.

Conroy, the 20-year-old from Edmonton, recovered the puck off a faceoff and quickly whipped a high shot past Guillaume Decelles on the blocker side as the Vees completed a stunning comeback after losing the first two games of the series on home ice. It was Conroy’s first goal of the series and sixth of the playoffs. He also had seven assists in the series.

Dante Fabbro and Game 5 hero Riley Alferd also scored for the Vees, who have won the Fred Page Cup three times during Fred Harbinson’s tenure as GM and head coach. Oddly enough, all three clinching games were on the road (twice in Nanaimo).

Spencer Hewson and Brett Roulston replied for the Clippers.

Hunter Miska made 27 saves for the Vees, while Decelles made 39 stops for the Clippers. The game was scoreless until the third period.

The Vees will play the Alberta league champion in the opening game of the Western Canada Cup a week from today.

After a sluggish first period, the game opened up in the second. Nanaimo’s Sheldon Rempal had Miska beaten but Vees defenceman Patrick Sexton made a diving play to stop a wraparound and then got to his knees and blocked the rebound off his chest.

Penticton came out on a mission in the third period and after relentless pressure, it was rookie defenceman Fabbro who broke the ice at 9:18. Conroy showed great patience before dropping the puck to Fabbro who fired a high shot off the far post and in, with Steen Cooper also assisting.

But the Vees relinquished the lead in bizarre fashion 14 seconds later as Hewson’s long shot hit Miska up high and blooped over his shoulder and down into the net.

Penticton recaptured the lead on a splendid individual effort by Alferd at 11:47. Taking a feed from Jack Ramsey, Alferd went wide on a defender, got tripped up but hoisted a backhander over Decelles from his knees. Matt Serratore also earned a helper.

Once again, the Vees couldn’t close it out as Roulston batted a bouncing puck from the slot between Miska’s pads to tie the game at 2-2 with 3:22 to go. Nicolas Carrier earned the lone assist.

The Vees got a power play with 2:17 to go but couldn’t manage a single shot on goal as the final seconds wound down to send it to overtime for the third time in the series.

Like the other two overtime games, it ended quickly as Conroy scored unassisted to set off a wild celebration as the Vees won for the third time in as many games in Nanaimo in the series.

ICE CHIPS: Decelles, Conroy and Roulston were the three stars ... The Vees, Melfort Mustangs (Saskatchewan league champs), Portage Terriers (Manitoba league champs) and the host Fort McMurray Oil Barons have punched their tickets to the Western Canada Cup. The Brooks Bandits once again staved off elimination in the Alberta league final with a 6-4 road win over the Spruce Grove Saints, who still lead the series 3-2. Game 6 is Sunday in Brooks.

The Calgary Hitmen are coming off a 2-1 overtime victory in Medicine Hat on Wednesday giving the Hitmen a 3-1 lead in the series. Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini leads the WHL playoffs in assists with 10 and points with 19 missed Game 4 with an undisclosed injury, but was back on skates Thursday. Tambellini likely will skate again this morning and then be re-evaluated.

Tambellini attended the New York Rangers Prospect Development Camp in July was one of twenty players reassigned from the Rangers Training Camp in September. The Rangers reassigned Tambellini to the Hitmen on September 24th 2014.

Tambellini left the University of North Dakota last season for the Western Hockey League joining the Calgary Hitmen in early January after being acquired in a trade with the Portland Winterhawks. Tambellini played a season and a half in Vernon (2011-13) before being traded to Surrey on January 10th 2013 along with future considerations (Michael Roberts) for Mason Blacklock & future considerations (Jordan Klimek and Demico Hannoun). In 91 regular season games with the Vipers Tambellini collected (49-goals-46-assists-95-points). Tambellini was drafted 64th overall in the 3rd Round by the New York Rangers at the 2013 NHL Draft.

Adam Tambellini found himself in an unfamiliar situation on Wednesday in Medicine Hat.

The Western Hockey League’s leading playoff scorer was forced to watch from the sidelines while his Calgary Hitmen edged the Medicine Hat Tigers 2-1 in overtime to take a 3-1 lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal series.

“It was a little weird not being out there with my teammates,” said Tambellini after practising with the Hitmen on Thursday at the Scotiabank Saddledome. “I’d rather be out there trying to help them, but it was a great win by them. They played extremely well.”

Hitmen head coach Mark French wouldn’t divulge the severity of Tambellini’s ailment, but noted that he’d like to have his leading scorer back in the lineup as soon as possible.

“I think it’s appropriate at this time just to say that it’s an undisclosed injury,” French said. “Hopefully it’s just day-to-day and we get him back.”

Whether that happens in time for Game 5 of the series on Friday night (6 p.m., Sportsnet.ca/960) at the Saddledome remains to be seen.

Regardless of not getting the chance to add to the nine goals and 10 assists he has accumulated in Calgary’s first 10 playoff contests, Tambellini was extremely happy to see rookie Jordy Stallard score at 7:22 of the extra session on Wednesday to help the Hitmen take control of the series.

“Obviously, Stally with that overtime winner was great, but you look behind that with Taylor Sanheim making that play to him was obviously very impressive,” Tambellini said. “They played really strong all game and stuck to our system and didn’t look their age out there.”

Stallard now sits fifth among rookie playoff scorers with three goals and two assists in 11 games. Not bad for the product of the Brandon minor hockey system who doesn’t turn 18 until Sept. 18.

“It was a great feeling and it was nice to contribute and come out with the win,” said Stallard, who was happy to play a bigger role with both Tambellini and Chase Lang (lower body) not playing. “We’ve got to when we have big guys like that (out of the lineup). Tambo and Langer, they’re huge guys for our team. Other guys just have to step up and play our game.”

Overage forward Connor Rankin was also impressed with how everyone played in the absence of Tambellini and Lang.

“That’s been one of our powers this year is we’ve had a lot of depth and a lot of guys that can step up at any time,” said Rankin, who’s tied for second in the playoff scoring race with Brandon Magee of the Victoria Royals at nine goals and five assists. “I couldn’t be more proud of the guys right now and we’ve been doing a great job with everyone stepping up and doing their part.”

Rankin added that it was a little unusual to not have Tambellini as his centre for the first the first time in recent memory.

“I’ve played next to him for 71 games this year and through the playoffs,” said the 20-year-old left winger from North Vancouver. “It was different without him for sure and obviously (he was) a guy that was missed. He’s such a great player and he’s had a great year obviously so far.”

With a chance to eliminate the Tigers at home on Friday night, the Hitmen remain cautiously optimistic. They also held a 3-1 lead on the Kootenay Ice in the first round before needing to win 6-2 in a Game 7 at home on April 6.

“It definitely was a learning experience,” said Jake Virtanen of the Kootenay comeback. “We let off the pedal a bit and they came back. We’re just going to have to obviously stick together and finish it off (on Friday).”

French has already addressed the matter with his players and expects them to have a bigger sense of urgency on Friday.

“We’ve been in the situation before and we need to learn from it and hopefully handle it in a better way,” French said. “As a group it’s our first playoff experience and I don’t think we handled Game 5 in the appropriate fashion against Kootenay. I prefer we learn from that, learn how to handle our emotions the right way (and) understand how to handle this situation.”

ICE CHIPS: Via www.hitmenhockey.com, the team has a special online promo offer for Friday’s game where all seats are $15 + tax … Fans are invited to remain in their seats after the contest to watch Game 2 of the Calgary Flames/Vancouver Canucks series on the jumbotron, and the concessions will remain open.

The BCMML Cariboo Cougars twitter account tweeted Tuesday 17 year old forward Steven Jandric has committed to the Vernon Vipers for next season. Jandric is listed at 5'10 175 lbs collected (18-goals-36-assists-54-points) in 39 games this season with the Cougars. Jandric scored once played six games with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks this season.

Thursday, April 16, 2015

The BCHL has re-introduced the roster rule stating that each team must have a minimum of two players 17-years-old or younger on their active roster in 2015-16. This is a change from this past season when teams were required to have minimum of four rookie players, which was defined as those entering the season with less than 30 games of Junior A experience.

The 17-years-old and under rule was in place for the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons after teams were required to carry a minimum of one 16-year-old and one 17-year-old on their rosters during the 2011-12 season.

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

The American Hockey League (AHL) Hamilton Bulldogs have released former Vernon Vipers forward Sahir Gill after his second stint with the Bulldogs this season. Gill was signed to a professional tryout agreement (PTO) on January 17th 2015 played in 24 games with the Bulldogs collected (2-goals-2-assists-4-points) was released on March 25th 2015. Gill will return-report to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Wheeling Nailers.

Gill attended the Montreal Canadians Training camp this season was released before signing with the Bulldogs on October 10th 2014. Gill was released after going pointless in one game with Hamilton returned to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Wheeling Nailers where he played last season before signing a professional tryout agreement (PTO) with the American Hockey League (AHL) Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Gill played in 12 games with the Penguins collecting (1-goal-2-assists-3-points) before being released January 16, 2015.

Gill played last year with the ECHL Wheeling Nailers. Gill finished sixth in rookie scoring and lead the team in scoring collecting (13-goals-41-assists-54-points). Gill was suppose to enter his fourth and final season at Boston University last season but left school signing with the Nailers early in the season. Gill played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2008-2010). Gill left the Vipers in July of 2009 for the United States Hockey League (USHL) Chicago Steel but after just 26 games would return to Vernon in mid January of 2010. In 71 regular season games with the Vipers Gill recorded (21-goals-30-assists-42-points).

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

The South Korean Hanwha Eagles baseball club have signed former Vernon Vipers defenceman Nyjer Morgan.

Morgan spent parts of one season with the Cleveland Indians last year, signed a Minor League contract with the Indians on January 16th 2014 before earning a roster spot with the Major League Club on March 24th 2014. Morgan returned to the Majors after playing the 2013 season in Japan where he spent the season with the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) Yokohama DeNa BayStars. After just playing in 15 games spending most of his time with the Tribe on the DL Morgan was released on August 5th 2014.

Morgan signed with the BayStars on January 23rd 2013 after spending the previous two seasons with the MLB Milwaukee Brewers before electing free agency, a day after the Brewers hastened his departure by outrighting him from the 40-man roster.

Morgan was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 33rd round of the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft. On September 1st 2007 Morgan made his major league debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates against the Milwaukee Brewers as a late-season call-up. On June 30 2009 Morgan was traded to the Washington Nationals along with pitcher Sean Burnett in exchange for outfielder Lastings Milledge and pitcher Joel Hanrahan. On March 27 2011 Morgan was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for prospect Cutter Dykstra (son of baseball player Lenny Dykstra). Morgan played for three MLB teams, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh and Washington before heading to Japan. Morgan attended the Vernon Vipers Training camp in 1996-97. Morgan played as an affiliated player "AP" as a 16 year old with the Vipers during the (1996-1997) season while playing with the KIJHL North Okanagan Kings.

This tournament features the champions of the BCHL, AJHL, SJHL, MJHL, and the Estevan Bruins.

The tournament will be held in April and concluded in May 2016.

The winner of the tournament and the winner of the consolation game earn spots in the Royal Bank Cup which is the National Championship which is taking place in Lloydminister in 2016.

Co-Chairs for the tournament include Areshenkoff, Ray Frehlick, Barry Bridges, and Warren Waldegger who is also acting as the treasurer.

Areshenkoff noted during his speech they have a number of immediate priorities.

This includes them developing the tournament organizational chart and recruit a team leader for each sub-committee.

Also being able to develop processes which ensure the financial accountability of the event.

The estimated value of the event is $750,000.

On the hockey side of things, hosting the tournament will guarantee the Bruins a spot in the tournament.

" I think by the end of this season we will be more then competitive which will lead into the 2015-2016 season where we will be more competitive. " said Estevan Bruins Head Coach and General Manager Chris Lewgood after the conference.

With the Bruins guaranteed a spot in the tournament they know they will have a chance to go to the RBC Cup, however as Lewgood explained they don't want to go in the back door.

" From a management and a hockey standpoint we don't plan on taking the back door into this thing are goal every night is to win hockey games and moving forward towards the event we plan on winning our way there and building a successful team that will not only compete but move on to the RBC. "

The event will begin at the end of April 2016 and finish up in the beginning of May.

Sunday, April 12, 2015

Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini was named the CHL Player of the Week Tuesday. Tambellini was named the WHL Player of the Week Monday is in his second season with the Calgary Hitmen played in 71 regular season games recording (47-goals-39-assists-86-points) was tenth in WHL scoring this season.

Tambellini attended the New York Rangers Prospect Development Camp in July was one of twenty players reassigned from the Rangers Training Camp in September. The Rangers reassigned Tambellini to the Hitmen on September 24th 2014.

Tambellini left the University of North Dakota last season for the Western Hockey League joining the Calgary Hitmen in early January after being acquired in a trade with the Portland Winterhawks. Tambellini played a season and a half in Vernon (2011-13) before being traded to Surrey on January 10th 2013 along with future considerations (Michael Roberts) for Mason Blacklock & future considerations (Jordan Klimek and Demico Hannoun). In 91 regular season games with the Vipers Tambellini collected (49-goals-46-assists-95-points). Tambellini was drafted 64th overall in the 3rd Round by the New York Rangers at the 2013 NHL Draft.

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that New York Rangers prospect Adam Tambellini of the Calgary Hitmen is the CHL Player of the Week for the playoff week ending April 5 after recording 11 points in four games with six goals and five assists.

Tambellini, who was also named the Denny’s WHL Player of the Week (for the week ending April 6), led the way offensively across the WHL in the first two weeks of playoff action helping the Hitmen advance to the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals with a seven-game series win against the Kootenay Ice that wrapped up Monday night. His four games last week were highlighted by a hat-trick in Tuesday’s Game 3 helping the Hitmen grab an 8-7 overtime win, followed by a four-point performance with a goal and three assists earning second star honours in Wednesday’s 7-2 victory in Game 4. On Friday night he collected a pair of assists and earned third star honours despite a 5-4 overtime loss to the Ice in Game 5, then scored twice and earned third star recognition in a 4-2 Game 6 loss on Saturday. Last night Tambellini contributed two assists as the Hitmen prevailed 6-2 in Game 7 to advance to the second round where they will face the Medicine Hat Tigers.

Tambellini, a 20-year-old from Edmonton, AB, is playing in his second WHL season with the
Hitmen. Selected by the Rangers in the third round of the 2013 NHL Draft, Tambellini signed an entry-level contract with the club last month. He has 15 points in seven playoff games after leading the club with 86 points in 71 games scoring 47 goals and 39 assists.

Also considered for the award this week was defenceman Jérémie Fraser of the Val-d’Or Foreurs who scored two goals and six assists for eight points in four games helping the defending QMJHL champions defeat the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in six games. In the OHL, 2015 NHL Draft prospect Mitchell Marner of the London Knights scored three goals and six assists for nine points in the final four games of a first round six-game series win over the Kitchener Rangers.

Saturday, April 11, 2015

Defenseman Callum Volpe committed to play for the Vernon Vipers in 2015-16. Volpe, who's from Coquitlam, BC, led all blueliners on the Vancouver NE Chiefs of the BC Major Midget League in scoring with 44 points (10 goals, 34 assists) in 40 games. The 16-year-old listed at 5'10 181 lbs added seven points (four goals, three assists) in six playoff games. He skated in one game with the Langley Rivermen as an affiliate player, notching no points.

Former Vernon Vipers goaltender Andrew Hammond was named the NHL's First Star of the Week Monday.

Hammond made his first career NHL start Wednesday February 18th 2015 vs the Montreal Canadians recorded 42 saves in a 4-2 win over the Habs for his first career NHL victory. Hammond is 19-1-2 with two shutouts and a 1.82 GAA

Hammond attended the Ottawa Senators development camp in July before being released from the Sens Training camp was sent down to the AHL. Hammond was in his second season with the Binghamton Senators before being recalled from the American Hockey League on January 29th 2015.

After four seasons with Bowling Green University Hammond signed his first pro contract with the Ottawa Senators on March 20th 2013. Hammond played last year as a rookie with the American Hockey League (AHL) Binghamton Senators. In 48 games with Binghamton Hammond went 25-19-3 with one shutout and a 2.81 GAA.

Hammond made his NHL debut last season was called up to the Ottawa Senators on February 27th 2014 vs the Detroit Red Wings. Hammond was the backup for Senators starting goaltender Robin Lehner that night but made his NHL debut after Lehner was pulled late in the 2nd period giving up six goals on fifteen Detroit shots. Hammond would finish the game playing just over thirty four minutes stopping all eleven Red Wing shots in a 6-1 loss to Detroit. Hammond attended the Chicago Blackhawks 2012 development camp and attended the Ottawa Senators 2013 development camp playing in a few exhibition games with the Senators last season. (no stats)

Hammond played parts of two years in Vernon (2007-2009) after coming over in a trade with the Surrey Eagles during the 2007-08 season. In 52 regular season games with the Vipers Hammond posted a (33-15-1) record recording 6 shutouts.

Hammond helped the Senators continue their surge for a playoff berth by posting a 3-0-1 record, 1.63 goals-against average and a .940 save percentage as Ottawa (40-26-13, 93 points) finished the week two points behind both Wild Card spots in the Eastern Conference. Hammond stopped 16 shots in a 2-1 shootout victory over the Detroit Red Wings March 31, made 28 saves in a 2-1 overtime win over the Tampa Bay Lightning April 2 and 29 stops in a 4-3 overtime win over the Washington Capitals April 4. He closed the week by posting 36 saves through overtime and five more in the shootout in a 3-2 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs April 5. The NHL's First Star for March has posted a 17-1-2 record with a 1.86 goals-against average, .939 save percentage and two shutouts since his season debut Feb. 16.

Friday, April 10, 2015

The American Hockey League (AHL) Hamilton
Bulldogs have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Sahir Gill to a professional try out contract. This is Gill's second stint with the Bulldogs this season.

Gill attended the Montreal Canadians Training camp this season was released before signing with the Bulldogs on October 10th 2014. Gill was released after going pointless in one game with Hamilton returned to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Wheeling Nailers where he played last season before signing a professional tryout agreement (PTO) with the American Hockey League (AHL) Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Gill played in 12 games with the Penguins collecting (1-goal-2-assists-3-points) before being released January 16, 2015.

Gill played last year with the ECHL Wheeling Nailers. Gill finished sixth in rookie scoring and lead the team in scoring collecting (13-goals-41-assists-54-points). Gill was suppose to enter his fourth and final season at Boston University last season but left school signing with the Nailers early in the season. Gill played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2008-2010). Gill left the Vipers in July of 2009 for the United States Hockey League (USHL) Chicago Steel but after just 26 games would return to Vernon in mid January of 2010. In 71 regular season games with the Vipers Gill recorded (21-goals-30-assists-42-points).

MONTREAL, QUE. – Montreal Canadiens and Hamilton Bulldogs general manager Marc Bergevin announced today the Bulldogs have signed forward Sahir Gill to a professional try out contract. He is expected to play tonight as the ‘Dogs take on the Grand Rapids Griffins at FirstOntario Centre at 7 p.m.

Gill has split this season between the Bulldogs, the American Hockey League’s Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and the ECHL’s Wheeling Nailers. In one game with Hamilton, the 22-year-old has recorded no points or penalty minutes. In 12 games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, the 5-10, 178-pound forward has recorded three points (one goal, two assists). In 15 games with Wheeling, the Terrace, B.C. native has recorded 15 points (four goals, 11 assists) and four penalty minutes.

Gill also spent the entire 2013-14 season – his first as a professional – with the Nailers. In 67 regular season games with Wheeling, he recorded 54 points (13 goals, 41 assists) and 26 penalty minutes. Before turning pro, he spent three seasons (2010 to 2013) with the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Boston University Terriers. In 117 career games with Boston University, he recorded 78 points (28 goals, 50 assists) and 55 penalty minutes.

For more information on Hamilton Bulldogs flex tickets, group tickets and single-game tickets, call 1-866-DOGS-TIX or visit hamiltonbulldogs.com.

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1990 & 1991 Vernon Lakers Inducted Into Okanagan Sports Hall Of Fame

The 1969-70 & 1971-72 Vernon Essos were inducted into the Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame in November 2014

1999 Vernon Vipers Inducted Into BC Hockey Hall Of Fame

The 1999 Vernon Vipers were inducted into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame In July 2016

On December 2nd 2017 the Vernon Vipers honoured the 1956 Vernon Canadians and former Vernon Esso's legend Wayne Dye. The 1956 Vernon Canadians Allen Cup banner along side Wayne Dye's #8 Legends banner were raised to the rafters at Kal Tire Place

Kal Tire Place-Home to the Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame

The Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1982 through the vision of Vernon resident and sports enthusiast, Nick Alexis. With the support of Vernon City Council, Alexis and a dedicated group of volunteers created a series of outdoor exhibits celebrating the region’s dynamic sporting history in Vernon’s Cenotaph Park. That same year, the new organization unveiled its first round of inductees to the Hall of Fame. Several years later, in 2001, the Hall of Fame moved its exhibits into the newly constructed Vernon Multiplex now known as Kal Tire Place.

About Me

I first created this blog in November of 2008. This coming season will be my ninth season doing this blog. I was born and raised in Vernon, BC and have been going to Junior Hockey games in Vernon since I was a young child. I purchased my first set of season tickets in 1990
I have had season tickets for the last 26 years, Since 1990 I have missed 42 home games.
In September of 2009 I missed my first home game since 2002-03 wich my streak of 236 straight Vipers home games came to an end. Ive missed just three Vipers home games since the 1998-1999 season.
I worked with the Vipers back in 2003-04 as colour comentator helping out with a few games over the internet. In 2011 I helped deisgn, create and put together the Vipers new website for the 2011-12 season. I ran and updated the Vipers website for five seasons, keeping all staff bios and pictures updated, adding new game photos, doing a game preview on game days, as well as adding any Vipers news, scores or BCHL news through out the season.
Over the years I have travelled to Victoria, Dauphin & Camrose to watch the Vipers in the RBC Cup. I was also at the 1990 Centennial Cup & 2014 RBC Cup in Vernon.